Mercedes-Benz has long been one of the most respected luxury carmakers in the world. For decades, other automakers looked to the German brand and its European rivals for engineering leadership. Now, it seems the tables are turning. According to exclusive information gathered by Chinese outlet 36Kr, Mercedes-Benz is exploring a new electric vehicle platform that could rely on technology developed by Chinese automaker Geely. The two companies already share ties, with Geely holding a stake in Mercedes-Benz’s parent company, Daimler, and the brands collaborating on several projects over the years.
Mercedes Could Build Future EVs On Chinese Tech
Mercedes-Benz
Citing several industry insiders familiar with the discussions, 36Kr claims that Mercedes-Benz is developing a new vehicle platform codenamed “Phoenix.” The architecture is expected to underpin the brand’s next generation of entry-level models, including future versions of the A-Class, CLA, GLA, and GLB. Instead of building every component internally and designing it from the ground up, Mercedes is evaluating Geely’s GEA electronic and electrical architecture as the backbone of the platform.
In simple terms, this system controls how the car’s computers communicate with each other, enabling key functions such as driver assistance technology and modern infotainment systems. Mercedes is currently testing the concept using Geely’s latest GEA 4.0 architecture. The Phoenix platform could arrive around 2030 and eventually replace the company’s current MMA platform, which underpins the new electric CLA. The new Chinese platform will also tie into Benz’s current vision of making cars easier to repair.
China’s Growing Role in Mercedes
Geely
The report also claims Mercedes recently restructured parts of its development operations and handed its China research and development center a much larger role. The Chinese R&D team could become responsible for leading the development of the Phoenix platform. If that happens, it would mark a historic shift. In Mercedes-Benz’s 100-year history, full development responsibility for a major vehicle platform has traditionally remained in Germany. But it doesn’t matter if you think Mercedes is breaking tradition; this move makes sense.
Chinese carmakers have mastered the art of cost-cutting without compromising quality, and have become extremely competitive in areas such as software, battery technology, and advanced vehicle electronics. Features that once seemed futuristic are now spreading rapidly. For example, LiDAR sensors that once cost around $50,000 can now be purchased for a fraction of the cost, and home-grown brands like Ford, GM, and Rivian are interested.
A Global Industry Shift
BYD
Mercedes is far from the only Western automaker looking East for help. Volkswagen has invested heavily in XPeng, and Stellantis formed a joint venture with Leapmotor to accelerate its EV ambitions. In fact, Ford has explored the idea of allowing Chinese automakers to build vehicles in the United States, in exchange for their technology.
A recent survey found that 69% of Gen Z buyers would consider purchasing a Chinese car brand, something we never thought would happen a few years ago. Meanwhile, global manufacturers are adapting to the Chinese market itself. Audi has a separate “AUDI” brand in China, focused on electric vehicles developed specifically for local buyers. If Mercedes ultimately adopts Geely’s architecture, it would be another sign that the traditional flow of automotive technology is reversing. For much of the last century, China looked to Europe and America for automotive expertise, often imitating them. Ironically, some of the world’s most established carmakers are increasingly turning to Chinese technology to stay competitive in the electric age.
